The valleys of the Loire, Cher and Indre rivers are a harmonious combination of non navigated rivers, rich vineyards and vast forests. Discover the landscapes,
unspoiled nature, beautiful gardens and breathtaking castles of the Loire Valley on your bike. The terrain is wonderful for bicycle riding - mostly flat to rolling -
and is filled with rivers, trees, and colors. On this 165km bike tour, you will explore the area between Chambord and Chinon, and you'll have the opportunity to visit Amboise, Chenonceau and Cheverny castles among others. Our selected hotels and the local restaurants will spoil you with regional gastronomic food and local wines. For many visitors, the Loire Valley conjures images from the fairy tales of childhood.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Arrival in Saint Pierre des Corps-Tours TGV station, located only 1h from Paris by train. You can also take a train to Amboise directly, about 2h from Paris. Transfer on your own to Amboise and settle at your charming 3 star hotel. Orientation and bike
set up at 6pm. Dinner on your own.
Day 2 | Amboise to Cheverny. The Loire, Touraine’s First Lady, will be your
guide for a gentle bike tour via the stables and gardens of the Chaumont-sur-
Loire XVIth century castle and the «Tintin» Château of Moulinsart at Cheverny,
famous for its kennels and trophy room. Then cycle on to your 3* hotel outside
of Cheverny in a quiet country setting, dinner included. 45km (B,D)
Day 3 | Loop ride to Chambord. A flat ride will take you through the alleys of the 5000 ha Domain of Chambord to the most fabulous Unesco World heritage listed jewel of the Loire. An equestrian show in the stables of the Maréchal de Saxe or a barge tour along the castle may complete your visit. Return to the same hotel for dinner and the night. 60 km (B,D)
Day 4 | Cheverny to Chenonceau. A scenic ride will take you to the Cher river valley and the Château de Chenonceau, erected by Henry II in the XVIth century over the Cher river and improved by Catherine de Medici. The castle hides several pieces of historical interest, furniture and tapestries. As you overnight in Chenonceau you may enjoy a Son et Lumière Show. Dinner included at your 4 star hotel. Ride distance is 46km (B,D)
Day 5 | is departure day, you can take your time getting started in the morning to have breakfast and depart at your leisure for Amboise & the train (B)
Details
The trip includes: [Virtual Hotel Tour] excellent 3 & 4 star hotels with private bathroom, all breakfasts and most dinners (3) as shown, daily baggage transfer from hotel to hotel, detailed guide maps, cue sheets, tourist information, local emergency technical support, orientation upon arrival. We also provide travel planning to add Paris hotels, car rentals, France hotels, trains, airport transfers, and more.
UPGRADE: Deluxe 4 star hotels: Le Choiseul, Chateau de Breuil, Bon Laboureur. Upgrade rate is 1050 euros/person.
Bike Rentals: [Click for image] 90 euros; Scott Sportster P3 hybrids; see link for full details and picture. Helmets and add on materials included. Merckx racing bikes available also see Cycling Classics for specs under Rental Bikes.
Scott Sportster P3 hyrid rentals - the best rental bike available in the region for 2008, certainly so for self-guided travelers!
Additional Night Amboise: 205 euros/double room incl. breakfast.
You are important to us; so we make you thoroughly prepared and include:
Pre-trip travel documents: you will receive extensive information as a customer prior to your departure. Upon confirmation we will send you some general information about preparations including passport info, training tips, and reading lists. As a customer you can also Purchase product from Hammer Nutrition, get 2 FREE issues to Velo News, and much more!
Upon final payment, we will send to you a complete list of documentation by email including Hotel List, contact numbers, itineraries, sites to see and information about sites and culture of the region. We include road signs, packing lists, travel tips, language phrases, holiday info, tour details, culture and customs tips, and much, much more!
Optional Services:
Travel insurance, Paris museum & metro passes, Paris day tours, Lido shows, and other services. Cell phone rental and luggage storage services.
Note: prices subject to change based upon currency fluctuations. See Booking Terms and Conditions.
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